Farmers in North and South Dakota say U.S.-imposed tariffs on Canadian imports are having a serious impact on their operations. Though Canada was exempt from the latest round of tariffs announced by President Trump, earlier ones — like the 25% duty on certain goods — remain in effect.

Doug Sombke, president of the South Dakota Farmers Union, says the tariffs are driving up costs for key inputs, including fertilizer and farm equipment that often comes from Canada. “This was just a horrible idea,” he said, noting that most of South Dakota’s potash and a large share of equipment is Canadian-sourced.

For U.S. farmers, that means higher costs and greater uncertainty — especially when it comes to replacing or upgrading machinery.

For Machines Italia readers, the situation underlines the ripple effect trade policy has on cross-border equipment demand. While Italian companies aren’t directly targeted by these specific tariffs, the tension highlights how dependable access to agricultural machinery is a growing concern in North America — one where Italian technology and solutions may remain relevant and competitive.